Jones – the epigenome

So the word epigenetics actually means on top of genetics. And so what we mean when we talk about epigenetics is the sum of the modifications to DNA that don’t change the sequence of DNA itself but that change the way the DNA is used. So you can think about it like light bulbs.

If you imagine that all of the genes in your genome are light bulbs, then the genetic sequence determines what shape the light bulb is going to be or what colour it’s going to be. But the epigenome is like a dimmer switch on those light bulbs. It changes how bright that light bulb shines.

One of the things I think it’s important for people to understand about the current research into epigenetics and the thing that will influence people’s lives is that the epigenome is real proof that your DNA is not your destiny. The environment has such a huge influence on your life and on your health.

And so while your DNA is, you know, it’s a little piece of your destiny but the epigenome really proves that it’s not a deterministic one path, one way for everyone. Your path is going to be determined by what you – how you’re born, the sum of your life experiences, the sum of your parents’ life experiences and everything that came before you. So that’s the sort of what I think is an important message about the epigenome. It’s what it’s taught us.